WPP reworks research arm after TNS merger

Regional - WPP looks to have kick started the integration of TNS into the WPP empire, after announcing it will merge TNS' Custom Division with Research International.

The merger will see the WPP-owned Research International folded into TNS Custom Division to create the world's largest custom research company. The new global company will be known as TNS and will be led by Bob Meyers, chairman and Pedro Ros (pictured) as chief executive.

A TNS statement said it was too early to say if there would be redundancies as a result of merger, but added that a clearer picture would emerge in coming days. 

"As part of this we will clearly be reviewing roles and responsibilities as soon as possible," the statement said.

"Any role or responsibility changes will be looked at on a case by case basis locally, complying with all the necessary local legal, employee's representatives and works councils practices."

Jamie Hall, CEO of TNS Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa, said the merger was not about cost saving but bringing the talent of the two companies to benefit clients from the combined skills and a stronger portfolio.

He said the company has no intention make major cuts to staff, adding that both companies need to support their client rosters.